Augusta, Georgia – Veteran golf instructor and pundit Butch Harmon welcomed the return of the Masters this week, expressing relief at the anticipated decorum of Augusta National following what he described as a "disgusting" Ryder Cup last year. Harmon, 82, a long-time fixture in the sport whose father won the Masters in 1948, stated that the atmosphere at the previous Ryder Cup was "embarrassing being American."

Harmon, a Sky Sports pundit, revealed he withdrew from his planned broadcast duties for the Ryder Cup, citing concerns that discussions would focus more on gallery behavior than on the actual golf. He characterized Augusta National as the "Holy Grail of golf in the US," noting its patrons are among the best behaved in the sport.

The discussion also touched upon the suitability of former President Donald Trump for membership at the exclusive club. Harmon, who has known Trump for most of his life, suggested that Trump’s personality, described as "full of himself," does not align with the typical profile of an Augusta member. Harmon clarified his view, stating, "He is who he is... I don't think his personality fits the membership." He added that other former presidents, including Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, also are not members of Augusta National.

Shifting focus to the upcoming tournament, Harmon looked beyond the favorites, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, to spotlight Justin Rose as a strong contender. Rose, 45, currently ranked No. 7 in the world, is making his 21st Masters appearance. Harmon observed that Rose is playing "the best golf I’ve seen from him in a long time," citing his recent victory at the Farmers Insurance Open in February at Torrey Pines, where he "took... a very hard golf course, apart." Harmon also noted Rose has gained distance with his driver and is competing with significant confidence.

Harmon also addressed the topic of LIV Golf, dismissing the idea that victories on the Saudi-backed circuit are devalued by smaller fields. He maintained that "a win’s a win," irrespective of the competition size, highlighting Bryson DeChambeau's recent low scores and strong performances on the LIV tour.